Austin put it together, why can't I get it apart?

[bobthompson]

Sadly not yet Colin! Tried heat and "tapping not very gently" to no avail - so decided to put into a total diesel bath immersion for a week before I lost my temper and hit it too damn hard and broke something!
I will report back when I have success, but don't hold your breath because it looks like a long ride!
What do they say - Gently, gently catches Monkey? Or something stupid like that!
Bob.

[bobthompson]

Colin and others: Update

After 5 days totally immersed in Diesel I drained it off and using a hot air gun got it really hot - then hit it as suggested! Eventually it started to move and then bingo - success!
It is original, but was just seized up well and proper!
Now ready for minor repairs and new glass screen.
Thanks everybody for your pictures and suggestions.

[Colin Wilks]

Congratulations Bob!

I love jobs like this, which appear a real poser at first, but turn out to be pretty straight forward with the inestimable benefit of hindsight.